It’s that time of year already where we look to the Northern Hemisphere’s six finest rugby nations to slog it out in another tournament. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or more casual viewer, there’s nothing quite like squeezing into a warm pub to cheer England on (maybe with a pint of Guinness) to get us through the rest of winter.
What to Expect from This Year’s Six Nations
While France are the bookies’ favourites to win again this Six Nations, England are placed second after an impressive unbeaten autumn internationals (including wins against New Zealand and Argentina), putting them on an eleven-game winning streak.
Ireland aren’t hitting the form they were a couple of years ago, but they’re still not to be trifled with. Scotland can beat any team on their day and may trip England up again at Murrayfield.
Wales are still in the doldrums and will more than likely be battling it out with Italy to avoid the wooden spoon, but the Azzuri may yet get an upset.
Where to Watch the Six Nations on the Isle of Wight
If you feel like joining the crowds and want some moral support while moaning at the ref, then we’ve put together a short list of some of the best places to watch the Six Nations 2026 on the Isle of Wight.
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Scruffy Jack’s Sports Bar – Sandown Pier
Scruffy Jack’s is independent, sport-led, and set up properly for big fixtures, with large screens and sound usually on for Six Nations matches, making it the strongest all-round option for live rugby on the Island.
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The King Lud – Ryde
A busy Ryde pub that regularly shows live rugby and draws a sport-focused crowd on matchdays. Multiple screens and a lively atmosphere make it a more reliable choice than most town-centre options during the Six Nations.
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The Hogshead – Newport
The Hogshead is a sports-focused venue with plenty of screens and projectors to show for it, so no worrying about a game clashing with football. England matches will typically be shown with sound on, and there are booths, pool tables, and food offerings to suit everyone.
Whichever venue you decide to head over to watch the game, it’s always worth ringing ahead to check they’re definitely showing it and even to book a table.
Key England Fixtures
Each team plays the others once, home and away on a rotating basis, for a total of 15 matches. These are England’s 2026 fixtures:
- Saturday 7 February – England vs Wales
Allianz Stadium, Twickenham – 4.40 pm - Saturday 14 February – Scotland vs England
Murrayfield, Edinburgh – 4.40 pm - Saturday 21 February – England vs Ireland
Allianz Stadium, Twickenham – 2.10 pm - Saturday 7 March – Italy vs England
Stadio Olimpico, Rome – 4.40 pm - Saturday 14 March – France vs England
Stade de France, Paris – 8.10 pm
England are in form, but no doubt the other five teams will have something to say.
Final Thoughts
As the 2026 Six Nations draws near, each team is gearing up for another monumental showdown. No matter who you support and whether it’s from the comfort of home or down the pub, all that’s left is kick off.
